Connecting with community

Creating a strong community is a big part of what we do at Merrimu.

Through a variety of initiatives, the people we support can choose ways to become involved with the Merrimu and wider communities. These connections help the people we support to build social networks, make friends, and shape a sense of self-identity. Here, we share some of the ways the people we support can connect with their communities.

Drama

Drama continues to be a popular choice for the people we support. In preparation for their performance every year, the group makes their own props, designs costumes and selects the music – before showcasing their talents and hard work to a sell-out audience.

Community radio

Once a week, a group from Merrimu visits the studio at Apple FM in Bacchus Marsh. The group goes on the radio to talk about a range of issues and upcoming events. It’s an opportunity to literally speak to the wider community.

Community Gardens

Merrimu has its own patch. Here, people we support join with other local groups to nurture the garden and enjoy the camaraderie of working with others towards a common goal.

‘We choose where we grow our own vegetables in the garden. We grow tomatoes, cucumbers, beetroot and carrots.’ – Matthew